Respiratory Syncytial Virus: What is the Risk Over 60?

Abstract

AIM: This study aims to determine the burden of Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) on people aged over 60 at a tertiary health center. BACKGROUND: RSV affects children, individuals with health conditions, and those aged over 60. Vaccination is advised for at-risk groups to reduce illness and death. METHODS: We included patients aged over 60 with respiratory infections between 01.01.2015 and 31.12.2023, who tested positive for RSV (A or B) via PCR. We recorded age, gender, symptoms, outpatient/inpatient status, ICU history, pneumonia, chronic diseases, vital signs, lab results, and survival data at one week, one month, and three months. Survival data were compared by gender using chi-square, with p<0.05 considered significant. RESULTS: Figure 1 shows test numbers and positivity rates. Among positive cases, 68 patients (5.69%) were aged over 60, with 32 (47.05%) female. Average age was 70.72 ± 8.84 years. RSV PCR was positive in 7 (10.2%) outpatients and 61 (89.7%) inpatients. Thirty-five (51.4%) had pneumonia. Mean leukocyte count was 9.12 ± 5.35 × 10³/µL, neutrophil count was 6.80 ± 4.33 × 10³/µL, lymphocyte count was 1.32 ± 0.94 × 10³/µL, and CRP levels were 93.7 ± 10.38 mg/L. Twenty-five (36.7%) required ICU care. Common symptoms were cough (56, 82.3%), fever (38, 55.8%), sputum (34, 50%), and shortness of breath (32, 47.05%). Table 1 shows variable distribution by gender. CONCLUSIONS: RSV can cause severe comorbidities and death in those aged over 60. Prevention programs are essential to reduce RSV-related mortality and morbidity. This study provides data on RSV burden in this group.

Keywords

• Respiratory Syncytial Virus
• Vaccination
• People aged over 60